Ryan Mallett was putting together a solid pre-draft performance for NFL scouts, but apparently the former Arkansas quarterback just ran out of gas. After flying into Charlotte for an interview with the Carolina Panthers (who have the No. 1 pick in the upcoming draft) earlier this month, Ryan called them the following morning, saying that he was too sick to make it.

Complicating the matter is the fact sources said Mallett was seen out on the town late following the dinner. Off-field questions have followed Mallett every step of the process since he announced he was leaving school in January with eligibility remaining.

Mallett, who was arrested for public intoxication in March 2009, declined to answer questions from reporters about rumored drug use at the combine in February.

Mallett has been a bit of a question mark for scouts–a great pro prospect with terrific tools abutted with character issues–but honestly, blowing off that interview probably saved his NFL career. Who the hell would want to play for the Panthers? They have a new, defensive-minded coach in Ron Rivera, and they’ll basically be rebuilding that team. That’s like blowing off an interview at McDonald’s for that guy. Ryan Mallett might be a complete idiot, but he’s no dummy. UPDATE: Mallett’s agent says the quarterback was in bed by 10. Who to believe?